Cholesterol-lowering milk on the way

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Cholesterol-lowering substances derived from vegetables could soon be added to dairy products and breakfast cereals.

The food quality control body, Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ), has declared safe the addition of plant fats known as phytosterol esters to several products.

Phytosterol esters have been proven to keep so-called bad cholesterol under control.

Cereals and cereal bars made by Goodman Fielder and low fat milk and yoghurt made by Dairy Farmers are likely to carry the additive by early next year, FSANZ said.

"The overall conclusion of this assessment is that phytosterol ester enriched breakfast cereal is safe, and can result in a cholesterol lowering effect when consumed in the amounts proposed," FSANZ said.

"Low fat milk and low fat yoghurt enriched with phytosterol esters, at the levels proposed by the applicant, are not associated with adverse effects, and can result in a cholesterol lowering effect."

The companies' applications to approve the addition of phytosterols to their products are still open to public comment, but FSANZ said the process is likely to be approved unless scientists prove it would be detrimental to health.

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However, all the products will be legally required to carry advisory statements on their labels, warning that people on cholesterol lowering medication should seek medical advice on the consumption of those foods.

They will also be required to state that the products should be consumed as part of a diet low in saturated fats and high in fruit and vegetables, and that they are not recommended for infants, children and pregnant or lactating women unless under medical supervision.

Foods containing added phytosterol esters do not provide additional benefits when consumed in excess of three serves per day, FSANZ added.